When Laila Ali decided to lace up the gloves just like her father, Muhammad Ali, she had little support from him. ‘The Greatest’ believed boxing isn’t a sport for women. However, after witnessing what his daughter could do, the godfather of boxing embraced the idea. And for good reason. His daughter went on a spectacular run in the sport, and when she was done, she came out undefeated and a champion. 

She hung up her gloves in 2007, and nine years later, the world mourned the loss of her father. Yet, Muhammad Ali’s legacy continues to inspire far beyond boxing; a legacy of courage, compassion, and advocacy for justice. To honor his spirit, the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards (MAHA) were established in 2013, celebrating individuals who embody his values. Fittingly, Laila Ali was among those present at the event’s latest edition.

Laila Ali pays tribute to her father in Louisville

The annual event, organized by the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky, honors a select group of distinguished “Seasoned Humanitarians” recognized as Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awardees. This year’s recipients included Darren Walker, Nancy Lieberman, and Anquan and Dionne Boldin, among others. Following the ceremony, Laila Ali took a moment for a personal tribute, visiting her father’s grave at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville.

She shared the emotional visit with her followers on Instagram, posting a heartfelt message: “SEND MY POPS SOME LOVE,” she wrote. “I had an incredible weekend in Louisville, Kentucky, celebrating my father’s legacy at the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards @alicenterlou. Congratulations to all the honorees and heartfelt thanks to the entire team at the Ali Center for your dedication and hard work.”

“Visited my father’s resting place and gave him lots of love. Grateful to everyone who continues to honor his spirit and carry forward his message of greatness through service, character, and compassion,” she added. Her post quickly drew warmth and support from her large social media following, touched by her ongoing devotion to her father’s legacy.

Fan remembers encounter with Muhammad Ali

Both Muhammad Ali and his daughter have touched many lives with their work over the years. So, it didn’t take long for the public to celebrate their legacies. One user was left awestruck by the moment. “Wow, what a beautiful moment for you and the family,” the user commented. Fortunately for Laila, she gets the opportunity to enjoy this moment each year.

Another user expressed how much they missed Muhammad Ali. “We love you and we miss you. Mr. Muhammad Ali. The greatest boxing champion of all time,” the user wrote. By the end of his career, Ali had become more than a boxer; he was the poster child for social revolution.

The next user recalled a special encounter with Ali when the user was a child. “I had the honor of meeting ‘The Greatest,’ your father, when I was 12 in Harlem at an event we African danced at. He told [me] to believe in myself and that we danced beautifully. He then shook my hand and hugged me. I have always cherished that moment,” the user commented. Ali often attended Temple No. 7 on 116th Street and Lenox Avenue, where Malcolm X preached.

Meanwhile, this user highlighted the similarity between Ali and their own father. “He was the greatest! Our dads have the same birthdays! Mine was also the greatest dad! May they both rest in peace,” the user wrote. January 17, Ali’s birthday, is often a time of celebration for his fans as they look back at his legacy.

Someone else thanked Laila Ali for sharing the moment. “Sending you and your family love. Thank you for sharing him with the world,” the user commented. Ali performed for the people, fought for their justice, and more.

Having said that, fans appear to appreciate Laila Ali’s post about visiting her father, which she will continue to do for years to come. But what did you think about the special moment?